Do you feel like joy has been squeezed out by the pressures of homeschooling, family life, or unexpected trials? In this encouraging replay episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcast, Felice Gerwitz welcomes Karen Dwyer for a hope-filled conversation about discovering true joy—even in the midst of deep adversity.

Karen, host of the Wrap Yourself in Joy Podcast, shares her powerful testimony of walking with the Lord through devastating loss, including a house fire and the tragic death of her first husband. Instead of being overcome by sorrow, Karen explains how a life rooted in Christ, prayer, and community became the foundation for lasting joy.

Why true joy can only be found in a close relationship with Christ

How to remain anchored in faith during seasons of grief and hardship

Practical ways to defeat everyday “joy busters”

How Scripture—especially John 15—points us to complete joy

Why filling yourself spiritually is essential (yes, even for homeschool moms!)

Karen also introduces Cup of Joy, a simple, welcoming small-group study designed especially for busy moms. Each group:

Meets for one hour a week over coffee or tea

Listens to a 15-minute podcast episode beforehand

Uses a free, one-page PDF discussion guide (sent weekly)

Focuses on Scripture, prayer, gratitude, and fellowship

These studies are gentle, non-threatening, and perfect for homeschool moms who want community without overwhelm. Groups can be hosted at home, in churches, or even late in the evening once kids are asleep.

Two available 8-week studies include:

Joyful and Battle Ready

Esther for This Time: Prayer, Reversals, and Joy

Karen Dwyer is a retired college professor, former television cooking show host, author, and passionate encourager of women in faith. Her books Wrap Yourself in Joy and Esther for This Time are newly revised editions rooted deeply in Scripture and practical Christian living.

Learn more about Cup of Joy & sign up: wrapyourselfinjoy.com

Listen to Karen’s podcast: wrapyourselfinjoypodcast.com

Visit Felice and the show notes: vintagehomeschoolmoms.com

Explore more resources at Media Angels

Final Encouragement:
If you’ve been longing for more joy—or wondering how to share your faith in a natural, life-giving way—this episode is for you. Joy doesn’t require perfection, just presence… and sometimes a simple cup of coffee with friends.

Listen to Episode 514: “Cup of Joy” today and be encouraged.

Visit Karen’s website WrapYourselfInJoy.com

Please consider starting a Cup of JOY small group study accompanying this podcast. You would meet with friends for one hour weekly over coffee for eight weeks, and Karen will send you the free commentary and discussion materials each week. For more information and to sign up to start a Cup of JOY Women small group, go to WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.

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